Wired, wireless, infrared, and powerline audio entertainment systems

ABSTRACT

A method and system for communicating audio signals between an input device and an output device via a network. The output device can include loudspeakers and headphones. In some embodiments an output device, for example a center channel speaker, transmits audio signals to other output devices. In some embodiments, the output device is coupled to, or combined with, a speaker stand or speaker bracket. The network can be wireless, wired, infrared, RF, and powerline.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of co-pending patent application Ser.No. 10/613,596, filed Jul. 3, 2003 and entitled Wired, Wireless,Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, which is acontinuation-in-part patent application of patent application Ser. No.10/353,805, filed Jan. 27, 2003 and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared,and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, which claims priority toprovisional patent application Ser. Nos. 60/351,843, filed Jan. 25, 2002and entitled Wired, Wireless, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems,60/353,806, filed Feb. 1, 2002 and entitled Wired, Wireless, andPowerline Audio Entertainment Systems, 60/371,268, filed Apr. 8, 2002,and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline AudioEntertainment Systems, and 60/407,432, filed Aug. 28, 2002, and entitledWired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems,all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to home networks. More particularly, theinvention provides a method and system for communicating audio andcontrol signals, via a wired, wireless, infrared, or a powerline medium,to control one or more remote entertainment systems throughout a home.

2. Description of Related Art

A communication system for a home network facilitates two-waycommunication between a plurality of devices within the home. Thesedevices can be fixed or portable and can include, for example,televisions, computers, stereos, speakers, monitors, printers, and otherelectronic appliances. For these devices to communicate throughout ahome, they interface with the home network.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The systems and methods of the present invention have several features,no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirableattributes. Without limiting the scope of this invention, its moreprominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering thisdiscussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled“Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments” one will understandhow the features of this invention provide several advantages overtraditional audio entertainment systems.

One aspect of the invention relates to a method for communicating anaudio signal along with an associated control signal between a sourcetransmitter bridged to a wired, wireless, infrared, or powerline datastream or network.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a system including areceiver, processor, and amplifier wherein the audio signal and theassociated control signal are received via the network. The audio signalis amplified and broadcast via a loudspeaker. Embodiments of theloudspeaker include headphones, mono loudspeaker, stereo loudspeaker,and multi-channel loudspeaker systems.

Still another aspect is an apparatus for receiving an audio signal via anetwork. The apparatus comprises a housing, a receiver module located inthe housing and configured to receive a combined signal via a networkand extract a control signal and an audio signal from the combinedsignal, and a plug coupled to the housing and configured for insertioninto an electrical receptacle. The apparatus further comprising a powersupply in the housing, coupled to the plug and configured to distributeelectrical energy to the receiver module, and an output wire configuredto couple the housing to an output device.

Yet another aspect is an apparatus for transmitting an audio signal viaa network. The apparatus comprises a housing, a transmitter modulelocated in the housing and configured to receive an audio signal and acontrol signal, combine the audio and control signals into a combinedsignal, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via anetwork. The apparatus further comprising a plug coupled to the housingand configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle, a powersupply in the housing, coupled to the plug and configured to distributeelectrical energy to the transmitter module, and an input wireconfigured to couple the housing to an input device.

Another aspect is an apparatus for receiving an audio signal via anetwork The apparatus comprises a first housing that comprises areceiver module configured to receive a combined signal via a networkand extract a control signal and an audio signal from the combinedsignal. The apparatus further comprising a second housing that comprisesa plug configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle and apower supply coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electricalenergy to the receiver module. The apparatus still further comprising awire coupled between the first housing and the second housing and anoutput wire configured to couple the first housing to an output device.

A further aspect is an apparatus for transmitting an audio signal via anetwork. The apparatus comprises a first housing that comprises atransmitter module configured to receive an audio signal and a controlsignal, combine the audio and control signals into a combined signal,and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via a network. Theapparatus further comprises a second housing that comprises a plugconfigured for insertion into an electrical receptacle and a powersupply coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electricalenergy to the transmitter module. The apparatus still further comprisingan input wire configured to couple the first housing to an input device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system for a home networkthat can be connected using a wired, wireless, or powerline network.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of an embodiment of the communication systemthat has a set top box connected to a loudspeaker using a wired,wireless, or powerline network.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the transmittermodule from FIG. 1, which includes a plurality of audio inputs.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transmitter shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmittermodule from FIG. 1, which includes a single audio input.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an Tx powerline module from FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the receiver modulefrom FIG. 1, which includes an amplifier.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the receiver modulefrom FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an Rx powerline module from FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by thetransmitter module to transmit a Tx signal and a Tx control signal intoa powerline network.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by thereceiver module to receive an Id signal and an Rx control signal fromthe transmitter module via the powerline network.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a communication systemthat utilizes an infrared (IR) network.

FIG. 11A is a block diagram of receiver components which can be locatedin a surround or speaker enclosure.

FIG. 11B is a diagram showing multiple embodiments of a loudspeaker andreceiver components from FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is a block diagram of receiver components for a center channelloudspeaker that is configured to connect with one or more remoteloudspeakers via a wireless, wired, or powerline network.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a housing for the receiver componentsfrom FIG. 11A.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the IR transmitter shownin FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of audio and control signal paths through anembodiment of the receiver components 1140 from FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a receiver housing which comprises anAC/DC power supply collocated with the receiver (Rx) components fromFIG. 1.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a transmitter housing which comprises anAC/DC power supply collocated with the transmitter (Tx) components fromFIG. 1.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the receiver housing from FIG. 15 adaptedto wire to a wall socket.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the transmitter housing from FIG. 16adapted to wire to a wall socket.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supplywhich is wired to a second housing for the receiver components from FIG.1.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supplywhich is wired to a second housing for the transmitter components fromFIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be describedwith reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals referto like elements throughout. The terminology used in the descriptionpresented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited orrestrictive manner simply because it is being utilized in conjunctionwith a detailed description of certain specific preferred embodiments ofthe present invention.

In connection with the following description many of the components ofthe various systems and the entire systems, some of which are referredto as “module,” can be implemented as software, firmware or a hardwarecomponent, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) orApplication-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), which performs certaintasks. Such components or modules may advantageously be configured toreside on the addressable storage medium and configured to execute onone or more processors. Thus, a module may include, by way of example,components, such as software components, object-oriented softwarecomponents, class components and task components, processes, functions,attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers,firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures,tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided for in thecomponents and modules may be combined into fewer components and modulesor further separated into additional components and modules.Additionally, the components and modules may advantageously beimplemented to execute on one or more computers.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system 100 configured toprovide network connectivity throughout a home. The communication system100 receives an input signal from an input device 102. Types of inputsignals can include, for example, audio, video, textual, and controlsignals. These signals can originate from one or more input devices 102depending on the type of input signal. For ease of explanation, thefollowing description uses an audio signal as an exemplary input signalto the communication system 100. However, the communication system 100is not so limited and can be used with video, textual, and any otherinformation signal. Examples of input devices 102 that generate an audiosignal include a personal computer, digital video disk (DVD) player, astereo receiver, MP3 player, compact disk (CD) player, digital audiotape (DAT), and the like. Examples of control signals include, volumelevel, fader level, balance level, sub-bass level, destination source,sound processing selection, equalizer levels, power on, power off, orany other manipulation of the audio signal.

Connected to the input devices 102 is a transmitter module 104. Thetransmitter module 104 receives the audio signal, and any controlsignals, from the input devices 102. As mentioned above, an exemplarycontrol signal is a desired volume level. The sources of the controlsignal can include the input device 102. In one embodiment, thetransmitter module 104 includes a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) (notshown). The DSP is configured to process and encode the control signaland the audio signal prior to their transmission by the transmittermodule 104. For example, the address of a destination receiver module108(a)-(n) can be encoded by the DSP. Alternatively, control signals canoriginate at the transmitter module 104. For example, a switch (notshown) can be coupled to the transmitter 104 to allow a user to selectthe destination receiver module 108(a)-(n) that will receive the audiosignal.

The network or transmitter module 104 forms a bridge between the inputdevices 102 and a network, for example, a powerline medium 106. Apowerline network uses an existing infrastructure of alternating current(AC) electrical power outlets in the walls of a home or building to formmultiple electrical connections between any two of the power outlets.Power outlets are located almost everywhere someone might want to use anetworked device in a home or building. Thus, the powerline networkallows a user to remotely connect to the networked device via theexisting power outlets. The network in FIG. 1 is a powerline 106network. However, the communication is not so limited. Other exemplarynetworks include wireless, infrared, IRDA, and wired networks.

The transmitter module 104 is configured to combine the control signalwith the audio signal produced by the input device 102 to form acombined signal. The transmitter module 104 is further configured tomodulate the combined signal so as to convert the signals to a formwhich is compatible with transmission via the powerline 106. Anexemplary method for this conversion includes the use of a media accesscontrol (MAC) protocol coupled with a physical layer (PHY). The MAC andPHY can utilize data packets for the transmission of the combinedsignal. The MAC protocol controls the sharing of a PRY layer amongmultiple transmitters 104 and receivers 108(a)-(n), while the PHYspecifies the modulation, coding, and basic packet formats which areused to transmit along the powerline 106. An exemplary transmissiontechnique used by the communication system 100 is orthogonal frequencydivision multiplexing (OFDM). The detail components which perform theconversion of the combined signal for its transmission via the powerline106 are illustrated in, and will be explained with reference to, FIG. 5.

Alternatively, the audio signal and the control signal that areconverted from an analog to a digital form are formatted at the inputsource 102 for their transmission. The formatted signals are sent to thenetwork 106 without being processed by the transmitter 104.

The transmitter module 104 can connect with the powerline 106 via inputpower receptacle 105, such as a standard 3-prong electrical outlet.Alternatively, the transmitter module 104 is directly hard wired to thepowerline 106. More detailed block diagrams of the transmitter module104 are illustrated in, and will be described with reference to, FIGS.2, 3, and 4. A process for formatting and transmitting a combined signalvia the powerline 106, that can be performed by the transmitter module104 of FIG. 1, is shown in, and will be described with reference to,FIG. 9.

The powerline 106 connects with one or more receiver modules 108(a)-(n)via an output power receptacle 107(a)-(n). The output power receptacle107(a)-(n) operates in the same fashion as the input power receptacle105. The output power receptacle 107(a)-(n) directly connects with thereceiver module 108(a)-(n) while the input power receptacle 105 directlyconnects with the transmitter module 104. However, the input and outputpower receptacles can be cross identified depending on how they areutilized within the powerline communication system 100. For example,input power receptacle 105 can be used by the receiver module108(a)-(n). Moreover, the input power receptacle 105 can be usedsimultaneously by the receiver module 108(a)-(n) and the transmittermodule 104 to, for example, couple both for use in the same room of thehome.

A powerline 106 is a difficult environment for audio signals. Thecommunication path between any two power receptacle 105, 107 in the homecan have a complicated transfer function with many branches of thepowerline 106 having terminating loads at each receptacle with differentimpedances. Further, the transfer function can change with time due tothe connection or removal of common electrical devices into thepowerline 106. Thus, the amplitude and phase response of the powerline106 can vary widely with frequency.

The network or receiver module 108(a)-(n) is configured to receive thedata packets from the powerline 106 and extract the audio signal and thecontrol signal included therein. The detail components which may be usedto perform the extraction of the control and audio signals areillustrated in, and will be explained with reference to, FIG. 8.

The receiver module 108(a)-(n) utilizes the control signal to manipulatethe audio signal. This manipulation can include, for example, detectionof audio signal peaking and clipping. The receiver module 108(a)-(n) maybe configured to automatically adjust the audio signal's level to adjustfor detection of peaking or clipping. The receiver module 108(a)-(n) mayalso be configured to receive a code which determines a phase for theaudio signal. The receiver 108(a)-(n) then manipulates the audio signalsuch that a desired phase relationship is maintained with otherloudspeakers on the network based on the code. This can be accomplishedby coding a time or phase delay in the control signal. More detailedblock diagrams of the receiver module 108(a)-(n) are illustrated in, andwill be described with reference to, FIGS. 6 and 7. A process forreceiving and extracting the audio signal and the control signal fromthe received combined signal, that can be performed by the receivermodule 108(a)-(b) of FIG. 1, is shown in, and will be described withreference to, FIG. 10.

Still referring to FIG. 1, an output device 110 is connected to thereceiver module 108(a)-(n) and receives the manipulated audio signalfrom the receiver module 108(a)-(n). The output device 110 is configuredto change the audio signal into sounds loud enough to be heard at aselected distance. Output devices 110 can include, for example, stereoloudspeakers, home theater loudspeakers, and headphones.

As one can now recognize, the communication system 100 of FIG. 1provides wired connectivity between the input devices 102 and the outputdevices 110. As explained above, the network can be wired or wireless.For example, the network can use a wireless data transmission method,such as IrDA, to communicate between the input devices 102 and theoutput devices 108. IrDA is a standard defined by the IrDA consortium(Infrared Data Association) for both the input and output devices andthe protocols they use to communicate with each other. IrDA specifies away to wirelessly transfer data via infrared radiation using infraredlight emitting diodes (IR-LED's). Moreover, a wireless data transmissionmethod, such as radio frequency (RF), can be used for the network. An RFnetwork uses the electromagnetic spectrum associated with radio wavepropagation.

The input and output devices can be position at fixed or portablelocations within the home. For example, receiver module 108(a) andreceiver module 108(b) can be located in different areas of the homewhile communicating with transmitter module 104. The transmitter module104 may service a few or several receiver modules 108(a)-(n).

FIG. 1A is a block diagram of an embodiment of the communication systemthat has a set top box 140 connected to a loudspeaker 142 using a wired,wireless, or powerline network. The set top box 140 is configured tocombine an audio signal and a control signal. The combined signal istransmitted via the network 144 to the loudspeaker 142.

The loudspeaker 142 is coupled to an amplifier 146. The amplifier 146may be configured to amplify and\or manipulate the audio signal based onthe control signal. The amplifier can thus be further coupled to orincorporate an equalizer (not shown). The equalizer is configured tomanipulate the received audio signal prior to the loudspeaker 142broadcasting the audio signal.

The communication system can further include a loudspeaker controller150. The loudspeaker controller 150 connects to the network 144 and isconfigured to manipulate the equalizer of one or more loudspeakers 142.For example, the loudspeaker controller 150 can wirelessly connect tothe loudspeaker 142 via the network 144. Alternatively, the loudspeakercontroller 150 can connect via a wired network 144 to the loudspeaker142. The wired network can be, for example, an Ethernet LAN or apowerline network.

The loudspeaker controller 150 can connect to the loudspeaker 142 via adifferent network than the network 144 utilized by the set top box 140.For example, the set top box 140 can connect to the loudspeaker 142 viathe powerline network and the loudspeaker controller 150 connects to theloudspeaker 142 via a wireless network. The settings of the equalizercan be stored in the amplifier 146.

As another example, the loudspeaker controller 150 may connect with theloudspeaker 142 via the Internet or other wide-area network (WAN). Inthis example, the loudspeaker 142 can include web server softwareconfigured to allow the equalizer to receive its settings from theloudspeaker controller 150 via the Internet.

The loudspeaker 142 can further be configured to sense the broadcastsignal levels from other loudspeakers. The processing of the sensedsignal level may be performed internal to the loudspeaker 142. Thesensed signal level is then utilized by the sensing loudspeaker and theother loudspeakers to dynamically adjust the equalizer and signalbalance. Alternatively, the sensed signal level is transmitted to theloudspeaker controller 150, host, or other remote processor via thenetwork where adjustments are calculated and transmitted to theloudspeakers.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the transmittermodule 104 from FIG. 1. The transmitter module 104 is configured toreceive, format, and transmit a combined signal via the powerline 106.The transmitter module 104 includes receptacles 202(a)-(c), an audioinput connector 204, a signal processing module 216, a volume sensoranalog to digital converter (A/D) 206 which is coupled to the signalprocessing module 216, and a powerline module 222. Each of thesecomponents is described in detail below.

The audio input connector 204 includes a plurality of connector designsfor connecting with different input devices 102. For example, the audioinput connectors can include RCA connector module 208, Universal SerialBus (USB) module 212, miniplug, S/PDIF module 210, and SACD. The audioinput connector 204 can further include any combination of digital andanalog receptacles 202(a)-(c). For example, the RCA connector module 208can be used to connect an analog stereo receiver to the transmittermodule 104. For this connection, the audio input connector 204 iscoupled to an analog receptacle 202(a) to receive the analog audiosignal.

Coupled to the analog connector 202(a) is the volume sensor A/D 206. Thevolume sensor A/D 206 is configured to sense the input power level ofthe analog audio signal into the analog receptacle 202(a) and digitizethe input power level. The volume sensor A/D 206 senses a RMS value ofthe audio signal. Depending on the value, the volume sensor A/D 206changes the control signal. The sensitivity between changing the controlsignal in response to changes in the RMS value can vary. The controlsignal can be in an a variety of future developed formats, such as thewell known I²C format. As explained below, the control signal istransmitted along with the audio signal via the powerline 106 as acombined signal.

The RCA connector module 208 can include an analog to digital converter(A/D). The A/D forms a digital signal from the inputted analog audiosignal for its processing by the audio input connector 204.

The S/PDIF module 210 is configured to receive digital signals from theinput devices 102 via the receptacle 202(b).

The USB connector module 212 is configured to connect the transmittermodule 104 with a personal computer to receive a digital audio signaland an associated digital control signal. Since the control signal is indigital form, the volume sensor A/D 206 does not sense the controlsignal for the USB connector module 212 or the S/PDIF connector module210. An embodiment of the USB connector module 212 is a Stereo USB AudioInterface, part number TAS1020, which is manufactured by TexasInstruments Incorporated. Texas Instruments Incorporated is located at12500 TI Boulevard in Dallas, Tex. 75243-4136.

The audio input connector 204 further includes an input selector module214. The audio input connector 204 is coupled to the RCA connectormodule 208, the S/PDIF module 210, and the USB connector module 212. Theinput selector module 214 is configured to select the input device 102that is to have its audio signal transmitted by the transmitter module104. The selected input source 102 can dynamically change from time totime.

The input selector module 214 receives digital signals, audio andcontrol, from the selected input devices 102. Various bus designs can beused to couple the input selector module 214 to the input connectors toreceive the digital signals. Exemplary bus designs that are used in theaudio field include, for example, inter IC sound (I²S).

Connected to the audio input connector 204 is the signal processingmodule 216. The signal-processing module 216 is configured to combinethe digital signal, audio and control, from the input select module 214with an analog control signal from the volume sensor A/D 206. For inputsources 102 that provide a digital audio signal and digital controlsignal, the analog signal is not used. The control signal and the audiosignal for the selected input device 102 forms the combined signal.

The signal processing module 216 includes a processor 218 coupled to thevolume sensor A/D 206 for processing analog control signals. Theprocessor 218 can be an 8-bit processor. The processor 218 is configuredto control the volume sensor A/D 206. The signal-processing module 216may further include a programmable logic device (PLD) 220. The PLD 220is configured to combine the control signal with its associated audiosignal. For example, the PLD 220 combines the audio signal from theaudio input connector 204 with its associated control signal. Theprocessor 218 can assist in the combining of the audio signal with thecontrol signal. For analog input sources, the digital version of thecontrol signal is provided by the processor 218 using informationobtained from the volume sensor A/D 206. The PLD 220 is furtherconfigured to format the combined signal to be readable by the powerlinemodule 222.

The signal processing module 216 may also include a destination sourceswitch 221. The destination source switch 221 is configured to select areceiver 108(a)-(n) for receiving the combined signal. For example inFIG. 1, depending on the position of the destination source switch 221,any of the receivers 108(a)-(n) could receive the combined signal.Alternatively, more than one receiver 108(a)-(n) can receive the samecombined signal. In one embodiment, the signal processing module 216includes a digital signal processor (DSP) (not shown). The DSP isconfigured to process and encode the control signal and the audiosignal. For example, the address of the destination receiver module108(a)-(n) can be encoded by the DSP.

Coupled to the signal processing module 216 is the powerline module 222.The powerline module 222 is configured to modulate and transmit thecombined signal via the powerline 106. The powerline module 222 includesa powerline chipset 224, a powerline magnetics module 226, and an A/Cplug 228.

The combined signal is received by the powerline chipset 224 from thesignal processing module 216. The powerline chipset 224 is configured totransform the combined signal into symbols. The symbols are thenarranged into data packets for their transmission on the PHY via thepowerline 106. The PHY can utilize one or more carrier frequencies. Thedetail components which perform the conversion of the combined signalfor its transmission via the powerline 106 are illustrated in, and willbe explained with reference to, FIG. 5.

The powerline magnetics module 226 is coupled to the powerline chipset224. The powerline magnetics module 226 is configured to provideisolation between the low voltage powerline chip set 224 and the highvoltage powerline 106. The powerline magnetics module 226 is furthercoupled to an alternating current (AC) plug 228. The AC plug 228 isconfigured to electrically connect the transmitter module 104 with theinput power receptacle 105 (see FIG. 1) for transmission of the packets.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transmitter module 104 shown in FIG.2. The transmitter module 104 includes housing 240 and a plug 228. Thehousing includes a plurality of receptacles 202(a), (b), (c) eachaccessible for attaching a connector from input devices 102 to receivethe audio signal. The housing 240 may include a control signalreceptacle 244. In this embodiment, the control signal receptacle 244receives a separate analog or digital control signal from an inputdevice. Alternatively, and as described with reference to FIG. 2 above,a control signal is generated via the analog signal.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmittermodule from FIG. 1. In contrast to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 3,the embodiment of FIG. 4 is specifically designed for receiving signalsfrom analog input devices. Thus, FIG. 4 includes only the RCA connectormodule 208 from FIG. 3 for receiving input signals.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the powerline chipset 224, from FIG. 2,which performs the conversion of the combined signal for itstransmission via the powerline 106. The detail components of thepowerline chipset 224 are described below.

The powerline chipset 224 receives the combined signal from thesignal-processing module 216 via a host interface 402. The encryptionmodule 404 receives the combined signal from the host interface 402. Theencryption module 404 is configured to encrypt the combined signal sothat it is unreadable except by authorized users, for example, areceiver 108 (a)-(n). Coupled to the encryption module 404 is an encodemodule 406. The encode module 406 is configured to encode the combinedsignal. Exemplary encoding techniques include Reed-Solomon encoding.

A media access control (MAC) protocol 410 controls the sharing of a PHYlayer 412 among multiple transmitters 104 and receivers 108(a)-(n). Inconjunction with the MAC protocol 410, the PHY layer 412 specifies themodulation, coding, and basic packet formats which are used to transmitalong the powerline 106. An exemplary transmission technique used by thepowerline communication system 100 is orthogonal frequency divisionmultiplexing (OFDM).

OFDM divides the encoded signal into multiple parallel signals, each ofwhich has a relatively low bit rate. Each encoded signal is provided tothe mapper module 408. The mapper module 408 converts the bits tosymbols prior to their modulation on the PHY layer 412. For example, thebit streams can form OFDM symbols. Alternatively, QAM symbols can beused.

The MAC protocol 410 arranges each series of symbols to form a payloadfor transmission in a data packet. Each payload can be associated with aframe control header. The frame control header includes MAC protocol 410management information. For example, the packet's length and responsestatus can be included in the frame control header. The data packet canfurther include a start-of-frame delimiter and an end-of-frame delimiterin addition to the payload and frame control header. For unicasttransmissions to more than one receiver 108(a)-(n), the destinationreceiver 108 (a)-(n) can respond by transmitting a response delimiterindicating the status of its reception. As mentioned above, thedelimiters can be intended for more than one of the receiver modules108(a)-(n). However, the payload is intended for only the destinationreceiver module 108(a)-(n).

Each data packet is then modulated one of a series of closely spacedcarriers, or subcarriers of the PHY layer 412, using, for example, OFDM.Many different types of modulation can be used to transmit the symbolson the individual carriers. Exemplary modulation techniques includedifferential quadrature phase shift keying (DQPSK) modulation andquadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), both well known in the art. DQPSKmodulation encodes the data as the difference in phase between thepresent and previous symbol in time on the same subcarrier.

The payload is carried on subcarriers that have been previously agreedupon by the transmitter module 104 and destination receiver module108(a)-(n) during a channel adaptation procedure. The subcarriers areselected based on the transfer function between the transmitter module104 and the receiver module 108(a)-(n). For example, the transmittermodule 104 could select a first set of subcarriers of the PHY layer 412for transmission between itself and the receiver module 108(a). Thereceiver module 104 could then select a different set of subcarriers ofthe PHY layer 412 for transmission between itself and receiver module(b) based on the transfer functions between itself and receiver modules108(a), 108(b).

A digital to analog module 414 converts the modulated signal to ananalog form. The outgoing signal is then upconverted to an intermediatefrequency 416 prior to its transmission.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the receiver modulefrom FIG. 1, which includes an amplifier 514. The amplifier 514 can be adigital amplifier. Digital amplifiers internally process the audiosignal in the digital domain. The receiver module 108 is configured toreceive and unformat a combined signal received via the powerline 106.The receiver module 108 is further configured to manipulate and amplifythe audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal.

The receiver module 108 includes a powerline module 507, a signalprocessing module 508, and an amplifier module 514. The powerline module507 is similar to the powerline module 222 described with reference toFIG. 2 except that it operates in a reverse configuration. The powerlinemodule 507 is configured to receive and demodulate the combined signalvia the powerline 106. The powerline module 507 includes a powerlinechipset 506, a powerline magnetics module 509, and an A/C plug 510.

The alternating current (AC) plug 510 is configured to electricallyconnect the receiver module 108 with an input power receptacle107(a)-(c) (see FIG. 1) to receive the packets. The AC plug 228 isfurther coupled to the powerline magnetics module 509. The powerlinemagnetics module 509 is configured to provide isolation between the lowvoltage powerline chip set 506 and the high voltage powerline 106. Thepowerline magnetics module 509 is coupled to the powerline chipset 506.

The symbols in the data packets are received by the powerline chipset506. After their transmission on the PHY via the powerline 106, thesymbols are removed from the data packets. The powerline chipset 506 isconfigured to transform the symbols into a combined signal. The detailcomponents which perform the conversion of the data packets received viathe powerline 106 are illustrated in, and will be explained withreference to, FIG. 8.

The signal processing module 508 is similar to the signal processingmodule 216 described with reference to FIG. 2 except that it receivesthe combined signal and extracts the audio signal from the controlsignal. The signal processing module 508 includes a processor 218. Theprocessor 218 is coupled to a local volume control 512. The local volumecontrol 512 is configured to allow a user to change the volume level ofthe audio signal broadcast by the loudspeaker. The signal-processingmodule 508 further includes a programmable logic device (PLD) 513. ThePLD 513 is configured to extract or separate the control signal from itsassociated audio signal. The processor 218 can assist in separating theaudio signal from the control signal. The audio signal can be in an I²Sformat while the control signal can be in an I²C format. The PLD 513provides the signals to the amplifier 514.

Coupled to the signal-processing module 508 is the amplifier 514. Theamplifier 514 receives the extracted audio signal and control signalfrom the signal-processing module 508. The amplifier 514 is configuredto manipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast theamplified signal. The amplifier includes a digital signal processor(DSP) module 516, an amplifier module 520, a power stage module522(a)-(b), and outputs 524, 526.

The DSP module 516 is configured to manipulate the received audio signalbased on the control signal associated with the received audio signal.The DSP module 516 can include a graphical user interface (GUI) for auser to control the DSP module 516. A PLD 518 can be coupled to the DSPmodule 516 to provide control logic. This logic can include processingadditional channels, for example, subwoofer and center channels, for theamplifier 514. For example, the PLD 518 can create a delay in sending acenter channel signal to the DSP module 516. An embodiment of the DSPmodule 516 is a Stereo Audio Digital Equalizer, part number TAS3001,which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated. TexasInstruments Incorporated is located at 12500 TI Boulevard in Dallas,Tex. 75243-4136.

The amplifier module 520 is coupled to the DSP module 516 and receivesthe manipulated I²S audio signal. The amplifier module 520 converts theI²S audio signal to a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. An embodimentof the amplifier module 520 is a Digital Audio PWM Processor, partnumber TAS5010, which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated.The PWM signal is amplified by the power stages 522(a)-(b). Anembodiment of the power stages 522 is a Digital Amplifier Power Stage,part number TAS5110, which is manufactured by Texas InstrumentsIncorporated. The amplified signal is broadcast via outputs 524, 526.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the receiver module108 from FIG. 1. The second embodiment is similar to the firstembodiment except that the signal-processing module 602 does not providean I²C control signal. Moreover, the embodiment of FIG. 7 provides theI²S signal to an output module 604 and not to an amplifier. The outputmodule 604 converts the I²S signal to an analog form for broadcast viaoutputs 524, 526.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the Rx powerline chipset 506 from FIG. 6.The Rx powerline chipset 506 operates similar to the Tx powerlinechipset described in FIG. 5 except in a reverse configuration. The Rxpowerline chipset 506 performs the conversion of the combined signalreceived via the powerline 106. The detail components of the Rxpowerline chipset 506 are described below.

The incoming signal is downconverted from an intermediate frequency 802to a baseband signal. An analog to digital module 804 converts thebaseband signal to a digital form. The received data packet isdemodulated from one of a series of closely spaced carriers, orsubcarriers of the PHY layer 806. Many different types of modulation canbe used to transmit the symbols on the individual carriers. Exemplarymodulation techniques include differential quadrature phase shift keying(DQPSK) modulation and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), both wellknown in the art. DQPSK modulation encodes the data as the difference inphase between the present and previous symbol in time on the samesubcarrier.

A media access control (MAC) protocol 808 controls the sharing of thePHY layer 806 among multiple transmitters 104 and receivers 108(a)-(n).In conjunction with the MAC protocol 808, the PHY layer 806 identifiesthe modulation, coding, and basic packet formats which were used totransmit along the powerline 106.

The MAC protocol 808 removes the symbols from the received data packet.Each data packet can be associated with a frame control header. Theframe control header includes MAC protocol 808 management information.For example, the packet's length and response status can be included inthe frame control header. The data packet can further include astart-of-frame delimiter and an end-of-frame delimiter in addition tothe payload and frame control header. For unicast broadcast to more thanone receiver 108(a)-(n), the destination receiver 108 (a)-(n) canrespond by transmitting a response delimiter indicating the status ofits reception. As mentioned above, the delimiters can be intended formore than one of the receiver modules 108(a)-(n). However, the payloadis intended for only the destination receiver module 108(a)-(n).

The symbols are provided to the demapper 810. The demapper module 810converts the demodulated symbols to bits. The bits are provided to adecode module 812. The decode module 812 is configured to decode thebits into a combined signal. Exemplary encoding techniques includeReed-Solomon encoding. Coupled to the dencode module 812 is a decryptionmodule 814. The decryption module 814 receives the combined signal fromthe decode module 812. The decryption module 814 is configured todecrypt the combined signal so that it is readable by the authorizeduser, for example, the receiver 108 (a). once decrypted, the powerlinechipset 506 provides the combined signal to the signal-processing module508.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by thetransmitter module to transmit a Tx signal and a Tx control signal intothe powerline 106 when the input is an analog audio signal. The processbegins at a state 900 where the signal-processing module 216 receives anaudio signal from the audio input connector 204. The process then movesto a state 902 where the analog audio signal is processes through, forexample, low pass filtering or other additional signal processing toproduce an analog volume signal level. The process moves to a state 904where the volume sensor A/D 206 periodically samples the sensed volumeand converts the sensed volume into a digital form. Next, at a state906, the signal-processing module 216 receives the destination addressof the receiver 108(a)-(n) from the destination source switch 221. Flowproceeds to a state 908 where the signal processing module 216 combinesthe audio and control signal into a combined signal. At a state 912, thepowerline module 222 transmits the combined signal via the powerline 106to the destination receiver (a) (n).

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by areceiver module to receive an Rx signal and an Rx control signal fromthe transmitter module via the powerline 106. The process begins at astate 1000 where the combined signal is received by a destinationreceiver module via the powerline. The process moves to a state 1002where the destination receiver module extracts its destination addressfrom the combined signal. Flow moves to a state 1006 where thedestination receiver extracts volume and audio signals from the combinedsignal. Next, at a state 1008, the receiver module adjusts the volumelevel of the audio signal based on the volume signal. Flow proceeds to astate 1010 where the receiver module provides the adjusted audio signalto the loudspeaker.

FIGS. 11-14 illustrate embodiments of the communication system that areconfigured to utilize an infrared (IR) transmission and receptiontechnique to communicate within the network. However, the communicationsystem is not so limited. Other exemplary transmission and receptiontechniques that are within the scope of the invention comprise wireless,powerline, and wired techniques. Thus, the following description equallyapplies to communication systems that use techniques besides IR as wellas communication systems that use a combination of techniques within thenetwork.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a communication systemshowing an infrared (IR) transmitter 1101 and a loudspeaker 1115connected using an IR network. The IR transmitter 1101 is configured tocombine an audio signal 1103 and a control signal 1105. Alternatively,the control signal 1105 is sensed via the audio signal 1103. The IRtransmitter 1101 can include one or more diodes 1107. The diode 1107 isconfigured to transmit the combined signal in the infrared spectrum ofelectromagnetic radiation. In one embodiment, the combined signal istransmitted via the IR network to the loudspeaker 1115.

The loudspeaker 1115 can be coupled to a housing 1200. The housingincludes one or more receiver components 1140, an IR detector 1111, anda power supply 1113. The receiver components 1140 are configured toreceive the combined signal that is transmitted by the IR transmitter1101. The receiver components 1140 provide the received combined signalto the loudspeaker 1115. As illustrated in FIG. 11, the housing 1200includes one IR detector 1111. However, the housing can includeadditional IR detectors 1111. The IR detector 1111 is configured toreceive the transmitted combined signal from the IR transmitter 1101. Inanother embodiment, the receiver components 1140 and the IR detector1111 are incorporated within the loudspeaker 1115. In such aconfiguration, the IR detector 1111 can be incorporated into theexternal surface of the loudspeaker 1115. In still another embodiment,the IR detector 1111 is located external to the loudspeaker and coupledthrough the loudspeaker 1115 to internal receiver components.

In one embodiment, the IR transmitter 1101 is coupled to a headphone1117 via the IR network. In this configuration, the IR transmitter 1101transmits the combined signal via the diode 1107 to the headphone 1117.The transmitter is configured with a switch 1122 to create an address toenable operation of the speakers or headphones. For example, when theswitch 1122 is set to headphones, only the headphones will play. Whenthe switch 1122 is set to speakers, only the speakers receiving theaudio signal will play. The switching can be accomplished by manyalternative means such as by creating an address that will betransmitted along with the audio signal. The headphone 1117 can includereceiver components 1119, one or more detectors 1120, and one or moreloudspeakers 1121. The detector 1120 is configured to receive thecombined signal from the IR transmitter 1101. The detector 1120 furtherprovides the combined signal to the receiver components 1119. In oneembodiment, a housing for the receiver components 1119 is shaped like apyramid with detectors 1120 located on each of its four sides. In oneembodiment, the receiver components 1119 are combined with theloudspeaker 1121 of the headphone 1117. As will be recognized by oneskilled in the art, various combinations of these components can beselected while staying within the scope of the invention.

As explained above with reference to FIG. 1, the IR network of FIG. 11can provide the combined signal to the loudspeaker 1115 and/or theheadphone 1117 for a listener's enjoyment. In one embodiment, thereceiver components of the system 1109 manipulates the audio signalportion of the combined signal based on the associated control signalprior to the audio signal's broadcast by the loudspeaker 1115.Similarly, the receiver components 1119 of the headphone 1117 canmanipulate the audio signal portion of the combined signal based on theassociated control signal prior to the audio signal's broadcast via theloudspeaker 1121 to the user.

FIG. 11A is a block diagram of receiver components 1140 which can belocated in a surround or speaker enclosure. The receiver components 1140can comprise an IR receiver 1109, a DSP module 516 for multiplechannels, an amplifier module 520, and power stage modules 522 for oneor more surround or speaker channels. The IR receiver 1109 receives thetransmitted audio signal from the IR detector 1111. The DSP module 516processes the audio signal using any control information that wastransmitted with the audio signal. The DSP module 516 can furtherenhance the signal using signal processing techniques known in the art.The amplifier module 520 can be configured as a pulse width modulation(PWM) converter/amplifier driven directly from a digital input from theDAP/DSP. The power stage modules 522 receive the audio power signal fromthe amplifier module 520 and provides the audio signal to the audiooutput lines 1205, 1207. The audio output lines provide the manipulatedaudio signal to one or more surround or speaker enclosures. The surroundor speaker enclosure and associated receiver components 1140 can beconfigured to operate in mono or stereo depending on the systemrequirements.

FIG. 11B is a diagram showing multiple embodiments of a housing orspeaker 1150 and associated receiver components 1140 from FIG. 11A. Oneembodiment of the speaker is a housing for a surround speaker. However,as illustrated in FIGS. 11B(1)-(5), the invention is not so limited. Inthe embodiment illustrated by FIG. 11B(1), the receiver components 1140are mounted inside a speaker enclosure 1150. This enclosure can be anyspeaker. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 11B(2), the receivercomponents are mounted inside a stereo speaker 1150, all in one housing.One or more of the receiver components 1140 are mounted inside theenclosure. The receiver components may include signal processingtechniques to enhance the audio signal to give the listener theimpression of a wider separation of sound.

In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 11B(3), the receiver components1140 are mounted in various possible locations within a speaker stand.This embodiment integrates the stand and the receiver components. A usercan advantageously select any standard speaker to receive the audiosignal from receiver speaker outputs. The stand can be configured tooperate in a mono or stereo mode. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(4), the housing for the receiver is incorporated in a speaker wallmount. In this embodiment, the receiver housing, mount, and receivercomponents are integrated. As explained above with FIG. 11B(3), anystandard speaker receives the audio signal from the receiver speakeroutputs and is further mounted on the bracket. In the embodimentillustrated by FIG. 11B(5), the housing for the receiver components iswall mounted, floor mounted or mounted on a speaker. As explained abovewith FIG. 11B(3), any standard speaker receives the audio signal fromthe receiver speaker outputs.

The embodiments of FIG. 11B(1) and FIG. 11B(2) form complete speakersystems where the receiver components are integral with the speaker. Theembodiments of FIGS. 11B(3), 11B(4) and 11B(5) are adapter systems whichallow the user to transform any speaker system into a wireless system.This advantageously allows the user to incorporate the receivercomponents disclosed herein with a home entertainment system'spre-existing loudspeakers. Moreover, should the user decide to purchasenew loudspeakers, the user may select from a myriad of speakermanufacturers and speaker designs for attachment to the receivercomponents.

The receiver components 1140 illustrated in FIGS. 11B(1) and 11B(2) canbe configured to operate in a stereo or mono mode. In a preferredembodiment, the receiver components 1140 comprise the receiver module1109, PWM amplifier 520, power stage modules 522, and power supply. Thereceiver components 1140 may or may not include DSP 516 and signalprocessing depending on the application.

The transmitter which transmits the audio signal to the loudspeakersshown in FIG. 11B can be mounted inside another speaker. For example,the transmitting speaker can be a center channel or other speaker. Thisis most likely to be a center channel for IR networks but alternatively,the subwoofer loudspeaker, left loudspeaker, right loudspeaker, effectsloudspeaker, surround/satellite loudspeaker and the like is used insteadof the center channel speaker 1140. In an embodiment where the IRtransmitter 1101 is located in a center loudspeaker, the IR transmitter1101 transmits the signal to the surround or satellite loudspeakers orsubwoofer. The transmitter may be combined with one or more digitalamplifiers which will be described with reference to FIG. 11C.

FIG. 11C is a block diagram of receiver components 1142 for a centerchannel loudspeaker. The receiver components 1142 comprise a DSP module516 for multiple channels, a PWM converter/amplifier module 520, a powerstage module 522 for the center channel, and an IR transmitter 1101. Themultiple channels can be derived from various audio channelconfigurations. These channel configurations include, for example,stereo, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and 7.1 and the like. The DSP can process thesignal into various channel configurations, such as Dolby Digital, DTS,SRS or alike. The DSP may further process control information such asequalizer information, volume or other signal processing information.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11C, the receiver components 1142further comprise power stage modules 524(b)-(n) for other audio channelsin addition to the amplifier for the center channel. In someembodiments, for example, the receiver components 1142 comprise powerstage modules for the subwoofer loudspeaker, left loudspeaker, rightloudspeaker, effects loudspeaker, surround/satellite loudspeaker and thelike.

In operation, the receiver components 1142 receive an input signal fromthe input device 102. The input signal can be in the form of a digitalor analog signal. The input signal(s) is provided to the receivercomponents 1142 via connector interface 204. The DSP module 516processes the input signal for one or more of the channels. As shown inthe embodiment of FIG. 11C, the DSP module 516 may process the inputsignals for all the channels, some of the channels or none of thechannels.

A series of jumpers or switches 1122 allows the input signals for thespeakers to be either processed by the DSP module 516, sent directly toPWM or transmitted to the speakers by the IR transmitter 1101. The IRtransmitter 1101 is configured to transmit the combined signal to one ormore speakers 1144(a)-(b). This other speaker can be a surround speakeror other speaker. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11C, the IRtransmitter 1101 in the center channel speaker encodes and transmits thecombined signal to the surround or satellite speakers via an infrarednetwork. Alternatively, the IR transmitter 1101 in the center channelspeaker transmits the combined signal via powerline, RF, wireless, or awired network to the surround or satellite speakers.

The amplifier module 520 is coupled to the DSP module 516 and receivesthe audio signal. The amplifier module 520 converts the audio signal toa pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. The PWM signal is amplified bythe power stage 522. The amplified signal is broadcast via outputs524(a)-(n).

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a housing 1200 for the receivercomponents 1140 described in FIG. 11A. As shown in FIG. 12, the housing1200 can include two detectors 1111(a), (b) and a power supply 1113 asdescribed with reference to FIG. 11. Detectors can be located on thesame or different surfaces of the IR receiver 1109. For example, theembodiment shown in FIG. 12 further includes detector 1201 on adifferent surface of the housing 1200. By locating one or more detectors1111, 1201 on different surfaces of the housing 1200, the IR receivercan receive the transmitted combined signal from the IR transmitter 1101from more than one direction. The housing 1200 can further include audiooutput lines 1205, 1207. The audio output lines provide the manipulatedaudio signal to one or more loudspeakers 1115 (see FIG. 11). In oneembodiment, the housing 1200 includes a female or male fastener 1203 formounting the housing 1200 to a speaker bracket. The housing 1200 canfurther include mounting holes 1209. The mounting holes 1209 allow thehousing 1200 to be mounted inside or outside of the loudspeaker 1115.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the IR transmitter 1101shown in FIG. 11. The IR transmitter 1101 can be configured to receive,format, and transmit a combined signal via the IR network. The IRtransmitter 1101 can comprise an audio input connector 204, a signalprocessing module 1301, a volume sensor analog-to-digital converter(A/D) 206, and an IR encoder/transmitter module 1305. The audio inputconnector 204 is the same as described with reference to FIG. 2 exceptthat the audio input connector can additionally or alternativelycomprise a speaker-level input connector 1302. The speaker-level inputconnector 1302 allows the IR transmitter 1101 to receive speaker levelanalog signals and line level analog signals. The volume sensor 206 isthe same as described with reference to FIG. 2. The volume sensoranalog-to-digital converter (A/D) 206 can be coupled to the signalprocessing module 1301. The IR encoder 1305 is further connected totransmitting diodes 1107(a)-(n).

The signal processing module 1301 can include an 8-bit processor 218, adigital signal processor 1303, and a destination source switch 221. The8-bit processor 218 and the destination source switch 221 are the sameas described with reference to FIG. 2. The digital signal processor 1303can be configured to decode algorithms, for example, DTS, Dolby, DolbyDigital, and perform pre-processing before transmission by the IRtransmitter 1101. The signal processing module 1301 provides the controlsignal and the audio signal to the IR encoder 1305. The IR encoder 1305combines the audio signal and the control signal for its transmissionvia, for example, the diode 1107. In one embodiment, the DSP isconfigured to process and encode the control signal and the audiosignal. For example, the address of the destination receiver module canbe encoded by the DSP. In this embodiment, the destination source switch221 is not utilized.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of audio and control signal paths through anembodiment of the receiver components 1140 from FIG. 11. For ease ofexplanation, the following describes the IR receiver components 1140.However, the following description also applies to the headphoneembodiment of the IR receiver 1119. The receiver components 1140 areconfigured to receive and decode the combined signal received via the IRnetwork. The receiver components 1140 can be further configured tomanipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplifiedsignal. One embodiment of the receiver components 1140 includes opticaldetector 1111(a)-(n), IR receiver 1109, and an amplifier module 514.

The detector 1111 is configured to receive the combined signaltransmitted by the IR transmitter 1101 (see FIG. 11). The detector 1111provides the combined signal to the IR receiver 1109. As shown in FIG.14, the combined signal can be in an I²S format. Other formats fortransmitting the combined signal are within the scope of the invention.The IR receiver 1109 receives the combined signal via the detector 1111.The decoder/receiver 1109 is configured to decode and extract the audiosignal from the control signal. In embodiments where an addresscorresponding to a destination receiver is transmitted, the extractedsignals are only provided to the amplifier module 514 of the destinationreceiver. In one embodiment, the 8-bit processor 218 is configured toreceive the address and determine whether its associated receivedcorresponds to the address. If the address does not correspond, thereceiver will enter a standby mode and not amplify the signal. Thus,depending on whether the address corresponds to the receiver receivingthe signal, that receiver can be enabled and amplify the signal, ordisabled and not amplify the signal. In one embodiment, the receivercomponents 1140 time out in response to not receiving their address fora period of time and power down to a standby mode. If the transmittedaddress changes and corresponds to the receiver components 1140 instandby mode, the receiver will be enabled, power up, and play.

The amplifier 514 receives the extracted audio signal and control signalfrom the IR receiver 1109. The amplifier 514 is configured to manipulateand amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal.The amplifier 514 can include, for example, a digital signal processormodule 516, an amplifier module 520, a power stage module 522(a)-(b),and outputs 524, 526. The components of the amplifier 514 are the sameas described above with reference to FIG. 5.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a receiver housing 1500 whichadvantageously comprises an AC/DC power supply 1504 collocated with thereceiver (Rx) components 108 from FIG. 1. The housing 1500 comprises apower switch 1502, the Rx components 108, an address switch 221, theAC/DC power supply 1504, a plug 228, audio output jacks 1205 and 1207,and an amplifier 146. The housing 1500 can further comprise a lightemitting diode (LED) power indicator 1506 and an LED Rx indicator 1508.

The Rx components 108 may, as described above, receive a combined audioand control signal via digital radio frequency, powerline, Ethernet, orother wired or wireless means. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15,the Rx components 108 are configured for receiving the combined signalvia a powerline network. In these embodiments, the Rx components extractthe control signal from the combined signal and manipulate the audiosignal at least partially based upon the control signal. For thisembodiment, a transmitter (not shown in FIG. 15) that is coupled to thepowerline originates the audio signal.

The plug 228 couples the housing 1500 to the powerline or electricalsystem of the home or building to receive the combined signal. The plug228 provides AC electrical power to the housing 1500, and may alsoprovide the above described combined audio signal in powerlinecommunication embodiments.

In alternative embodiments, the Rx components 108 are configured forreceiving the combined signal via digital RF, Ethernet or other wired orwireless means. In such embodiments, the housing 1500 would furtherincorporate an antenna as known in the art or other such reception meansfor receiving the combined signal. For embodiments configured for usewith an Ethernet network, the housing 1500 can comprise a serialconnector, for example an RJ-45 port or the like, for connecting withthe Ethernet network. In embodiments where the combined signal wasreceived via means other than powerline transmission, the plug 228 stillprovides electrical power to the housing 1500.

The AC/DC power supply 1504 receives power from the electrical system inthe home via the plug 228. The AC/DC power supply 1504 converts thealternating current into a direct current. The AC/DC power supply 1504provides the direct current to the components of the housing 1500 asrequired. For example, the AC/DC power supply 1504 provides the directcurrent to the amplifier 146.

The power switch 1502 allows a user to turn the housing 1500 off or onas desired. In embodiments of the housing 1500 which do not comprise thepower switch 1502, the housing can automatically enter a standby statewhen not in use. While in a standby state, the housing 1500 goes online,or powers up, once a combined signal directed to the housing is receivedvia plug 228 when the housing is configured for use in a powerlinenetwork. If configured for use in a radio frequency network, the housing1500 can enter the online state upon receiving the combined signal overthe airwaves.

The address switch 221 is configured to select from one or more channelsor addresses for the receiver housing 1500. In this way, the user canconfigured the housing 1500 to receive a combined signal whichcorresponds to the user's selected channel. In addition, the user canutilize the address switch 221 to select which of one or moreloudspeakers is to receive the manipulated audio signal from the housing1500.

The amplifier 146 may be configured to amplify and/or manipulate theaudio signal based on the control signal. The amplifier 146 amplifiesthe received signal prior to transmission to the one or moreloudspeakers. The amplifier can thus be further coupled to, orincorporate, an equalizer (not shown). The equalizer is configured tomanipulate the received audio signal prior to the output devicebroadcasting the audio signal.

The amplified output signal is transmitted to an output device via audiooutput jacks 1205 and 1207. The output device is configured to changethe audio signal into sounds loud enough to be heard at a selecteddistance. Output devices can include, for example, stereo loudspeakers,home theater loudspeakers, and headphones. The audio output jacks 1205and 1207 can be any jack commonly used in digital or analog signalconnections or wires. Typically, the output jack 1205, 1207 can bestereo (right/left), mono, summed or digital signal. For example, theaudio output 1205 could connect the housing 1500 with a loudspeaker thatreceives a left channel signal. In this embodiment, the audio outputjack 1207 would provide a right channel audio signal to a secondloudspeaker. Together, the audio output jacks 1205, 1207 would beproviding a stereo signal.

The LED power indicator 1506 is configured to emit light when thehousing 1500 is in an ON state. The LED power indicator 1506 does notemit light when the housing 1500 is in an OFF state.

The LED Rx indicator 1508 is configured to emit light when the housing1500 is receiving a combined signal via the powerline. When the housing1500 is not receiving the signal, the LED Rx indicator does not emitlight.

During operation, the Rx components 108 of the housing 1500 receive acombined signal via, for example, a powerline network. The combinedsignal can be arranged in data packets for transmission via powerline.The Rx components 108 receive the data packets from the powerline andextract the audio signal and the control signal included therein.Components which may be used to perform the extraction of the controland audio signals are illustrated in, and were explained with referenceto, FIG. 8.

The Rx components 108 utilizes the control signal to manipulate theaudio signal. This manipulation can include, for example, detection ofaudio signal peaking and clipping. The Rx components 108 may beconfigured to automatically adjust the audio signals level to adjust fordetection of peeking or clipping. A process for receiving and extractingthe audio signal and the control signal from the received combinedsignal, that can be performed by the Rx components of FIG. 15, is shownin, and was described with reference to, FIG. 10.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a transmitter housing 1600 whichadvantageously comprises an AC/DC power supply 1504 collocated with thetransmitter (Tx) components from FIG. 1. The housing 1600 comprises apower switch 1502, the Tx components 104, an address switch 221, a plug228, an AC/DC power supply 1504, and audio inputs 202. The housing 1600can further comprise an LED power indicator 1506 and an LED Tx indicator1602.

The Tx components 104 are configured to receive, format, and transmit acombined signal via the powerline or other transmission medium. Forexample, the transmission medium could be a radio frequency. The Txcomponents 104 receive the audio signal, and any control signals, froman input device via the input jacks 202. As mentioned above, anexemplary control signal is a desired volume level. The Tx components104 combine, format, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver (notshown in FIG. 16) that is coupled to the powerline.

The plug 228 couples the housing 1600 to the powerline or electricalsystem of the home or building. The housing 1600, via plug 228,transmits the combined signal. The plug 228 provides, in addition to aconnection with powerline network, electrical power to the housing 1600.

In alternative embodiments, the Tx components 104 are configured fortransmitting the combined signal via digital RF, Ethernet or other wiredor wireless means. In such embodiments, the housing 1600 would furtherincorporate an antenna as known in the art or other such transmissionmeans for transmitting the combined signal. For embodiments configuredfor use with an Ethernet network, the housing 1600 can comprise a serialconnector, for example an RJ-45 port or the like, for connecting withthe Ethernet network. In embodiments where the audio signal istransmitted via means other than powerline transmission, the plug 228still provides electrical power to the housing 1600.

The AC/DC power supply 1504 receives power from the electrical system inthe home via the plug 228. The AC/DC power supply 1504 converts thealternating current into a direct current. The AC/DC power supply 1504provides the direct current to the components of the housing 1600 asrequired.

The power switch 1502 is coupled to the plug 228 and allows a user toturn the housing 1600 off or on as desired. In embodiments of thehousing 1600 which do not comprise the power switch 1502, the housingcan automatically enter a standby state when not in use. While in astandby state, the housing 1600 goes online, or powers up, once an audiosignal is received via the input jacks 202.

The address switch 221 allows a user to select one or more receiverhousings 1500 (see FIG. 15) for receiving the combined signaltransmitted by the housing 1600. In this way, the user is able to selectthe destination receiver housing 1500 that will receive the combinedsignal. Once selected, the combined signal is transmitted to theselected receiver housing 1500 via the powerline network.

The LED power indicator 1506 is configured to emit light when thehousing 1600 is in an ON state. The LED power indicator 1506 does notemit light when the housing 1600 is in an OFF state.

The LED Tx indicator 1602 is configured to emit light when the housing1600 is transmitting a combined signal via the powerline. When thehousing 1600 is not transmitting the combined signal, the LED Txindicator does not emit light. In this way, the user is able todetermine whether the housing 1600 is receiving a signal via the audioinputs 202 and combining that signal with the control signal fortransmission via the powerline network. As previously mentioned, othernetworks can be used. For example, a digital radio frequency network, anEthernet network, and/or other wired or wireless networks can be used.

During operation, the Tx components 104 of the housing 1600 receiveaudio and control signals via the input jacks 202. The Tx components 108combine the audio and control signals and transmit the resultingcombined signal in the form of data packets via the powerline network.Components which may be used to perform the combining of the control andaudio signals are illustrated in, and were explained with reference to,FIG. 5.

A process for combining the audio signal and the control signal to formcombined signal, that can be performed by the Tx components of FIG. 16,is shown in, and was described with reference to, FIG. 9.

In the embodiments described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, theAC/DC power supply 1504 is provided in close proximity with the receiverhousing 1500 or the transmitter housing 1600. Such a configuration maybe advantageous to a user when coupling the transmitter or receiverhousings 1500, 1600 with audio output devices and/or loudspeakers. Forexample, user connects an output device to the housing 1600 via theaudio inputs 202. The user inserts the plug 228 for the housing 1600into a wall outlet. The housing 1600 is further coupled to the powerlinesystem via the plug 228 to form a path for the audio signal to enter thepowerline system. Once in the powerline system, the audio signal isrouted to the selected receiver housing 1500 for conversion back to anaudio signal.

To achieve listening enjoyment in a selected location, the user attachesthe audio outputs 1205, 1207 of the receiver housing 1500 to one or moreloudspeakers. The user inserts the plug 228 into a wall outlet withinthe home or building, thereby completing a path for the audio signal toreach the loudspeakers.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the receiverhousing from FIG. 15 that is adapted to wire to a wall socket via plug228. The receiver housing 1700 comprises a power switch 1502, the Rxcomponents 108, an address switch 221, the AC/DC power supply 1504, aplug 228, audio output jacks 1205 and 1207, and an amplifier 146 all asdescribed with reference to FIG. 15. The housing 1700 is advantageous itthat the user can locate the housing a distance away from the walloutlet via wire 1702. This is in contrast to the embodiment describedwith reference to FIG. 15 where the housing is located adjacent to thewall outlet.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmitterhousing from FIG. 16 that is adapted to wire to a wall socket via plug228. The receiver housing 1800 comprises a power switch 1502, the Txcomponents 104, an address switch 221, a plug 228, an AC/DC power supply1504, and audio inputs 202. The housing 1600 can further comprise an LEDpower indicator 1506 and an LED Tx indicator 1602 all as described withreference to FIG. 16. The housing 1800 is advantageous it that the usercan locate the housing a distance away from the wall outlet via wire1702. This is in contrast to the embodiment described with reference toFIG. 16 where the housing is located adjacent to the wall outlet.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a first housing 1900 for an AC/DC powersupply which is wired, via a wire 1904, to a second housing 1902 for thereceiver components from FIG. 1. The first housing 1900 comprises a plug228 and an AC/DC power supply 1504 all as described with reference toFIG. 15. For example, the first housing 1900 may simply be a step downtransformer or a transformer/rectifier combination. The second housing1902 comprises a power switch 1502, the Rx components 108, an addressswitch 221, audio output jacks 1205 and 1207, and an amplifier 146 allas described with reference to FIG. 15. The second housing 1902 canfurther comprise an LED power indicator 1506 and an LED Rx indicator1508 all as described with reference to FIG. 15.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supplywhich is wired to a second housing for the transmitter components fromFIG. 1. The first housing 2000 comprises a plug 228 and an AC/DC powersupply 1504 all as described with reference to FIG. 19. The secondhousing 2002 comprises a power switch 1502, the Tx components 104, anaddress switch 221, and audio inputs 202 all as described with referenceto FIG. 16. The housing 2002 can farther comprise an LED power indicator1506 and an LED Tx indicator 1602 all as described with reference toFIG. 16.

The foregoing description details certain preferred embodiments of thepresent invention and describes the best mode contemplated. It will beappreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appearsin text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. The embodiments ofthe receivers herein disclosed can be fixed or modular in design. Forexample, the digital amplifier can be designed for a DSP/DAP to pluginto a digital bus. For a modular design, the receiver is configured toconnect via Ethernet, wireless, wired, powerline, infrared, and/or RFthrough a common bus. Examples of common bus designs include I²S, I²C,parallel, and serial.

As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particularterminology when describing certain features or aspects of the presentinvention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is beingre-defined herein to be restricted to including any specificcharacteristics of the features or aspects of the invention with whichthat terminology is associated. The scope of the present inventionshould therefore be construed in accordance with the appended claims andany equivalents thereof.

1. An apparatus for receiving an audio signal via a network, theapparatus comprising: a housing; a powerline module located in thehousing, the power line module comprising: a powerline magnetics moduleconfigured to provide isolation between a powerline PHY module and ahigh voltage powerline, the powerline magnetics module coupling apowerline signal onto a front end of the powerline PHY module, and asignal processing module configured to demodulate a received signal inorthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) format into a combinedsignal; a receiver module configured to extract a control signal and anaudio signal from the converted combined signal, the receiver modulemanipulating the audio signal based on the extracted control signal; aplug coupled to the housing and configured for insertion into anelectrical receptacle; and a power supply configured to distributeelectrical energy to the receiver module.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1further comprising an A/D converting module, wherein the received signalis analog, and wherein the AID converting module is configured toconvert the received signal from analog to digital form.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1 further comprising an address switch configured forselecting an address from a plurality of addresses.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising a power switch configured to select an offstate or on state for the receiver module.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1further comprising an amplifier configured to amplify the audio signalbased in part upon the control signal, wherein the power supply isfurther configured to provide power to the amplifier.
 6. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the control signal is analog.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the audio signal is digital.
 8. The apparatus of claim1, wherein the control signal is a volume level.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a fader level.
 10. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the control signal is a destination source.
 11. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the control signal is a sound processingselection,
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control signal isan address.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the high voltagepowerline is 120 volts.
 14. An apparatus for receiving an audio signalvia a powerline network, the apparatus comprising: a housing comprising,a powerline module located in the housing, the power line modulecomprising: a powerline magnetics module configured to provide isolationbetween a powerline PHY module and a high voltage powerline, thepowerline magnetics module coupling a powerline signal onto a front endof the powerline PHY module, an A/D converting module configured toconvert the powerline signal into a digital signal in OFDM format, and asignal processing module configured to demodulate the digital signal inOFDM format into a combined signal; and a receiver module configured toextract a control signal and an audio signal from the converted combinedsignal, the receiver module manipulating the audio signal based on theextracted control signal.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14 furthercomprising a second housing comprising, a plug configured for insertioninto an electrical receptacle; a power supply coupled to the plug andconfigured to distribute electrical energy to the receiver module; awire coupled between the first housing and the second housing; and anoutput wire configured to couple the first housing to an output device.16. The apparatus of claim 14 further comprising an address switchconfigured for selecting an address from a plurality of addresses. 17.The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the combined signal includes anaddress signal which is associated with the output device.
 18. Theapparatus of claim 14, wherein the control signal is a destinationsource.
 19. An apparatus for receiving an audio signal via a powerlinenetwork, the apparatus comprising: a powerline magnetics moduleconfigured to provide isolation between a powerline PHY module and ahigh voltage powerline, the powerline magnetics module coupling apowerline signal onto a front end of the powerline PHY module; a signalprocessing module configured to demodulate a digital signal received inOFDM format into a combined signal; and a receiver module configured toextract a control signal and an audio signal from the converted combinedsignal, the receiver module manipulating the audio signal based on theextracted control signal.
 20. The apparatus of claim 19 furthercomprising a frequency converting module configured to change afrequency of the powerline signal.